BUY A TICKET

Ticket ExtravaganzaPurchase tickets for $30 exclusively at all Mills Fleet Farm locations Nov. 1-30. This is an in-store promotion only and the $30 pricing is valid when purchased at a Mills Fleet Farm store.

History & Format

In 1990 the Brainerd Jaycees had a desire to develop a signature project—a project that would rally members, raise money for local charities, and provide avenues for individual growth, personal development, and leadership. It is certain the founders never expected this event would become the world’s largest ice fishing contest and put Brainerd, MN, on the map with a winter event that generates over $1-million in revenue for area businesses and over $200,000 for area charities annually.

The Ice Fishing Extravaganza is held in January (typically the fourth Saturday of the month) on Gull Lake’s Hole in the Day Bay. It is an ice fishing contest where anglers compete for nearly $200,000 in cash and prizes. There are 150 spots on the prize board and the values are distributed throughout the list. Contestants are judged on the weight of their fish only—not the particular species of fish caught or length. All fish are weighed and are time-stamped so in the event of a tie the first fish weighed takes precedence.

Tips

Bring your contest ticket and a way to secure it — it’s an adhesive ticket (similar to a ski lift ticket) so a wire or string that loops through your zipper works the best. Your ticket must be visible at all times.

Bring your driver’s license — especially if you are purchasing your tickets at an outlet or on the ice the day of the event.